A "tree cookie" is a thin cross-section of a tree trunk that reveals the history of how a tree or branch grew; you can tell how old a tree is, how fast it grew, whether it grew on a hillside, or even if it grew in a very windy area. Tree Cookie Coasters are great little project to do if you're curious about trees and all you've got is a backsaw on hand! Collect windfall branches and save them indoors to dry fully for a year for best results and less cracking.
Use a palm sander to speed up the finishing steps if you have one. Extend the life cycle of your coasters by applying varnish to protect them from water stains and coffee spills.
Slicing or "bucking" up tree sections, as well as using small power tools, are skills utilized in the arborist technician trade.
Explore Related Trades Careers: Arborist technician
Use a palm sander to speed up the finishing steps if you have one. Extend the life cycle of your coasters by applying varnish to protect them from water stains and coffee spills.
Slicing or "bucking" up tree sections, as well as using small power tools, are skills utilized in the arborist technician trade.
Explore Related Trades Careers: Arborist technician
Tools & Materials
Material List
- dry branch, ~4"-6" in diameter
- sandpaper, 80-120 grit
- varnish
Tool list
- work gloves
- safety glasses
- dust mask
- backsaw
- measuring tape
- paint brush
- palm sander
- ear protection
Optional
Procedure
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Put on work gloves to protect your fingers, and safety glasses to protect your eyes. Hold the branch firmly to a solid surface or workbench, and use a backsaw to cut the end off a branch. Try to make it square to the length of the branch (like the bottom of a soup can).
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Repeat step 2 to make an entire coaster set of 4 or 6 if you choose.
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Make a pot of tea and invite some neighbours over to enjoy your new set of coasters!
Extension Challenges
- Try making a trivet or pot holder by cutting a tree cookie off a bigger log, 6" or more in diameter.
- Cut tree cookies off thinner branches and drill a small hole in the top of each to make ornaments, pendants, rear view mirror charms, etc.
- Paint a picture or design on the coaster before varnishing.
- Saw a class set of 30 and donate them to a local kindergarten class for the students to sand and decorate.